If you’re looking for a hearty breakfast, this protein oatmeal recipe is a fantastic option. It’s simple yet satisfying, packed with nutrition to kickstart your day.
This recipe addresses low protein levels in typical oatmeal, providing a quick, nutritious option for a filling breakfast or snack.
I remember the days when oatmeal felt too light, leaving me hungry shortly after breakfast. This recipe tackles that concern with a good boost of protein, perfect for those busy mornings or when you’re extra hungry before starting the day.
This oatmeal comes together in about 15 minutes, making it a quick, reliable go-to meal. The creamy texture mixed with the slightly sweet banana and warm spices truly makes it a morning favorite.
If you want to try more delicious recipes packed with nutrients, check out my Protein Brownies.
Table of contents
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Quick Prep Time , With just 5 minutes for prep and 10 minutes for cooking, you’ll have a warm, satisfying bowl ready in no time, making it an easy morning choice.
- Rich in Protein , This isn’t just regular oatmeal; adding protein powder delivers a hearty boost, keeping you full and energized for those busy mornings ahead.
- Customizable Texture , You can easily adjust the liquid to get your desired consistency. Want it thicker? Just add a bit more protein powder or reduce the liquid.
- Natural Sweetness , The banana not only sweetens the oatmeal but also creates a creamy bowl that’s full of flavor, making it a welcoming start to your day.
Protein Oatmeal Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cool Time:
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
- Category: breakfast
- Method: Stove-Top Cooking
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A delicious high-protein oatmeal bowl with banana, perfect for a nutritious breakfast.
Ingredients
- ½ cup (40 g) old fashioned rolled oats
- ½ banana, sliced
- 1 cup (240 ml) water or milk, your choice (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 scoop (about 30 g) vanilla protein powder
- A pinch sea salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium pot, mix the rolled oats, sliced banana, sea salt, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and the water or milk. Stir thoroughly to ensure all ingredients are well combined and flavors start to meld.
- Step 2: Place the pot on the stove over medium-high heat. Cook the mixture for about 8 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking and to help the banana melt into the oats, creating a creamy texture. Watch the liquid absorb fully into the oats.
- Step 3: Once the oatmeal has absorbed the liquid and is creamy, remove the pot from the heat. Immediately stir in the vanilla protein powder thoroughly to blend it smoothly into the hot oatmeal. This prevents clumping and ensures an even texture.
- Step 4: If the oatmeal becomes too thick for your preference, add additional water or milk gradually, stirring to reach your desired consistency. If it is too thick while cooking, you may add an extra ¼ cup (60 ml) of liquid at the 8-minute mark to loosen it.
- Step 5: Transfer the oatmeal to a bowl. Add your favorite toppings such as fresh fruit, sliced almonds, a dollop of Greek yogurt, nut butter, maple syrup, or chia seeds to enhance flavor and texture as you like.
Notes
- Room Temperature: Store cooked protein oatmeal in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day to maintain freshness and texture.
- Refrigeration: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently to restore creaminess before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- To prevent protein powder from clumping, always stir it in after removing the pot from heat.
- If bananas are not melting into the oatmeal well, slice them thinner or add them about 5 minutes before cooking ends for better integration.
- For undercooked oats after 10 minutes, cover the pot and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Use rolled oats for best texture and chew. Quick oats are an option but may turn mushier.
- Reheat refrigerated oatmeal gently in a pot on low heat or in a microwave, stirring occasionally until warmed through and creamy. Add a splash of water or milk if needed to loosen the texture.
- Serve topped with fresh berries, sliced almonds, a spoonful of Greek yogurt, or nut butter for added richness and protein.
- Drizzle with maple syrup or honey for extra sweetness if desired.
- Add chia seeds or peanut butter for texture and nutritional boost.
- Substitute vanilla protein powder with chocolate or another flavor as preferred, keeping the amount to 1 scoop (about 30 g).
- Use almond milk, oat milk, or other non-dairy milk to keep this recipe dairy-free or adapt to your dietary needs.
- Add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup during cooking or as topping for extra natural sweetness.
- Select ripe bananas to provide natural creaminess and sweetness.
- Choose protein powder that mixes well in hot liquids for the smoothest texture, avoiding powders that clump easily.
- Rolled oats deliver the best bite; finely ground quick oats will produce a softer, mushier result.
- Milk or water can be used according to preference; milk will yield creamier oatmeal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Ingredient Notes
- Oats: Go for rolled oats as they give the best texture and chew to your oatmeal. Quick oats can work too, but they’ll be mushier.
- Protein powder: A good quality vanilla or chocolate protein powder adds flavor and a protein boost. Check for one that mixes well to avoid clumps.
- Milk: Use your favorite milk, dairy or non-dairy works! Almond milk is a tasty dairy-free option. The liquid makes the oats creamy and helps everything bind together.
- Banana: Use a ripe banana for natural sweetness and creaminess. A mashed banana holds everything together, adding moisture without added sugar.
- Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon adds warmth and flavor. It’s a simple ingredient but really elevates the whole bowl of oatmeal!
- Honey or maple syrup: A little honey or maple syrup sweetens things up. They add a nice depth; you can adjust to your taste. Brown sugar is a good substitute too.
- Chia seeds: These tiny seeds soak up moisture, helping create a thick and creamy texture. Plus, they’re a great source of fiber and nutrients. You can skip them if you prefer.
Recipe Tips
- If the oatmeal is too thick while cooking, add an extra ¼ cup of water or milk at the 8-minute mark.
- When bananas aren’t melting into the oats, slice them thinner or add them 5 minutes before cooking is finished.
- If the protein powder clumps, remove the pot from heat before stirring it in to achieve a smoother texture.
- For undercooked oats at the 10-minute mark, cover and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- If you’re storing leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve protein oatmeal with fresh fruit like berries or sliced almonds for added texture. Complement it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or nut butter for creaminess, balancing the meal.
Use protein oatmeal to make overnight oats or incorporate it into smoothies for a protein boost. Add it to energy bites or muffins for a nutritious snack option or breakfast treat.
Top with maple syrup or a sprinkle of chia seeds for added flavor. Drizzle with peanut butter or almond milk for a finishing touch that enriches the dish.
Recipe variations
- You can use steel-cut oats for a chewier texture instead of rolled oats in this protein oatmeal recipe, adjusting cooking time to about 20-30 minutes for tender results.
- Add ½ teaspoon of nutmeg or 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder along with the cinnamon and vanilla to change the flavor profile slightly.
- Either cow’s milk or unsweetened almond milk can be used as the cooking liquid, with milk offering creaminess and almond milk keeping it dairy-free.
- If making for two, double all ingredients including 1 cup oats and 2 scoops protein powder, cooking in a larger pot to accommodate volume and heat evenly.
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How to Store?
To keep your protein oatmeal fresh and delicious, follow these storage tips:
Room Temperature: Place protein oatmeal in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day to maintain freshness and texture.
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Warm gently before serving to restore creaminess.
Freezing: Transfer to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
If you enjoyed this protein oatmeal or any other recipe on my blog, please leave a ⭐ star rating and let me know how it went in the comments below. I appreciate taking time to read about this recipe, thank you!
